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Definition: Token Ring

A local area network (LAN) access method developed by IBM. Conforming to the IEEE 802.5 standard, Token Ring uses a token ring access method and connects up to 255 nodes in a star topology at 4, 16 or 100 Mbps. All stations connect to a central wiring hub called the "Multistation Access Unit" (MAU) using twisted wire cable. Today, most all Token Ring business networks have migrated to Ethernet.

Different than Ethernet
The Token Ring MAU may be a central hub, but does not function like a shared Ethernet hub. The Token Ring method is more deterministic and ensures that all users get regular turns at transmitting their data. With Ethernet, all users compete to get onto the network.